Video: Savile’s Leeds penthouse flat to be ‘ripped out’ and gutted

Alison Bellamy

THE penthouse flat once owned by Jimmy Savile is being completely ripped out and gutted by builders, in preparation for new owners to move in.

The flat overlooking Roundhay Park has sold for £300,000, the second time since the star died in October 2011. It first sold a year ago for £250,000, which was £75,000 under the original sale price.

Exterior of penthouse flat, top left, where Jimmy savile lived for more than 30 years, in Roundhay, Leeds.

Martin Newby, of Allerton Builders, north Leeds, has taken on the job of gutting the 5th floor property, where the television star lived for more than 30 years.

He said: “I have been contracted to carry out major works on this property and work is starting very soon.

“We intend to rip out and remove the whole structure as it is in a very poor condition and given its previous owner, my clients and I are keen to remove and rebuild it completely.

“We are hoping to remove everything apart from the core which houses the services, lift and fire escape stairs.

“I am as keen as everyone else to get this apartment removed.”

“It must have one of the best views in Leeds. The place will look completely different when it is finished.”

The description of the property on Rightmove says it is not ‘for the faint-hearted or DIY enthusiast’ and needed a ‘complete development. Enjoying outstanding panoramic views over Roundhay Park and Waterloo Lake, all the way round to Soldiers Field. It requires complete redevelopment, yet offers scope and potential to create what could be a unique and enviable home.’

Savile’s former home first went on the market in September 2012, shortly before he was exposed as a serial sex attacker. Victims are now suing his estate.